8 Bourbon Cocktails to Try Right Now

As American as apple pie, bourbon is one of the true classics of our country’s history. This versatile whiskey has a reputation for being a star in spirit-forward winter drinks, but it is just as delicious when paired with fruit and lighter ingredients, too. See for yourself with these eight bourbon cocktails.

You certainly won’t be suffering once you have one of these in your hand. Originally concocted as a hangover cure, this mix of bourbon, gin, lime juice, Angostura bitters and ginger ale is the citrusy hair of the dog you’ll crave even when you’re not feeling under the weather.

The classic Bourbon Old Fashioned has been around for a long time and for good reason. Though the recipe is simple, the combination of whiskey, sugar, bitters and water has stood the test of time, thanks to its irresistible balance.

Cool off with this twist on a classic spiked cider. Bourbon, an easy cinnamon-vanilla syrup, lemon juice and apple cider blend into a chilly cocktail that you can enjoy through the warm days of summer and well into the fall.

Bourbon and two kinds of rum mix beautifully in this cocktail. The spirits are stirred with ice, honey, sugar, Peychaud’s bitters and Angostura bitters until chilled, then strained and garnished with an orange peel. The resulting cocktail is a little bitter, a little sweet and best served right before or after dinner.

If you’re in the mood for something creamy and sweet, this cocktail is ready. Just shake bourbon, whole milk, simple syrup and vanilla extract with ice, strain and garnish with nutmeg. Whether you serve it with brunch or as a dessert, this is one punch that will definitely please all your guests.

This ultra-drinkable cocktail is perfect for easy sipping whenever you’re in the mood for something tall and refreshing. Muddle strawberries and lemon juice, then shake with rich simple syrup and bourbon. Strain over ice and top with unsweetened iced tea.

You probably weren’t drinking anything like this tart and boozy riff on a classic Whiskey Sour in high school. But the two ingredients—Mike’s Hard Lemonade and Jim Beam bourbon—go together like pals who’ve known each other since elementary school.

Bourbon and beer are the combination you never knew you were missing—until now. When mixed with maple syrup, fresh lemon juice and a little bit of lager, bourbon’s smoky qualities are toned down to make a rich and sweet nightcap.